2024 40 Under 40: Ashley Silva

Ashley Silva, vice president of development and philanthropic services for Community Foundation of the Ozarks, says a constant in each step of her career has been to focus on celebrating successes and improving people’s lives

Silva, 39, led five full-time staff and 11 part-time coordinators to help CFO grow to 54 affiliate foundations from 49 in six years. Total affiliate assets more than doubled to $165.5 million with this growth, she says.

“Early on in life, I knew I wanted to pursue work that gave back to people,” says Silva. “I realized I loved the direct interaction of nonprofit work.”

Silva volunteers for organizations like Junior League of Springfield, Missouri Inc., classroom reader for Ozarks Literacy Council and advisor for Pi Beta Phi chapter at Drury University.

Best piece of advice you’ve ever received? Lead by example. Strive to be someone who can lead a team with skill and is also never too important to take care of the small (but crucial!) tasks to reach the end goal.

What about your job would shock people? Charitable giving and philanthropy is not just for the wealthy. Never underestimate the transformational impact that small gifts or a few passionate community members can make.

Favorite hobby or creative outlet? Reading, singing or my never-ending quest to master calligraphy.

Favorite local food order? One of my go-to local meals is the pau-pia tod and pad kee-mow from Everyday Thai.